Obituary of Reba Gwendolyn Berns
Reba Gwendolyn Brooks was born in Monroe, Michigan on June 3, 1943. She was one of three children, the only daughter born from the union of John Maurice Brooks and Rhoda Edith (Robison) Brooks. She was a 1961 graduate of Monroe High School.
Gwen married James Carl Berns in December of 1961 and they were blessed with three children. For many years, Gwen was employed as the Dining Room Manager for Big Boy. She later spent fifteen years as the Head Cashier for Food Town.
Gwen was a homebody although trips to Walmart were usually the highlight of her week. A long-time member of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church, she had worshipped at Trinity Lutheran Church for more than a decade. Gwen was extremely fond of her grandchildren and great grandchildren, often attending their basketball games and other sporting events. It was well-known that Gwen had a love for snacks and other junk foods, chocolate and most recently M&M’s being her favorite.
She enjoyed watching murder mysteries and sports, especially her beloved Dallas Cowboys much to the chagrin of her children.
Reba Gwendolyn Berns, age 80 of LaSalle passed away at 10:14pm ProMedica Toledo Hospital on Sunday; December 17, 2023. Her passing was preceded by her parents and a nephew: Darren Brooks.
To cherish her memory she leaves three children: Michelle Berns of Point Place, Toledo, Ohio, Michael (Jennie) Berns of Newport, and Melissa (Stephen) McAuliffe of LaSalle; two brothers: Norman Darrell Brooks of Florida and Jerry Wayne Brooks of Denver, Colorado; nine grandchildren: Michael (Stephanie) Berns II of Chicago, IL, Nicholas Berns of Chicago, IL, Stephen (Kelly) McAuliffe of Carleton, Holli Mathes (Donnie) of Deerfield, McKenzie (David) Younglove of Monroe, Evan Berns of Waterford, Olivia Harmon of LaSalle, Elise Harmon of LaSalle, and Noah Harmon of LaSalle; fifteen great grandchildren; and Shaunna (Todd) Young of Monroe, a close lifelong friend who also knew “Gwen” as Grammy
Friends may gather from 12:00pm until 2:00pm on Thursday; December 21, 2023, at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. A Celebration of Her Life will follow at 2:00pm also at Merkle’s with Reverend Dr. Daniel Potts, Senior Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial.
Memorial contributions for those who desire are suggested to the IHM Healthcare Center. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.